Liverpool has seen one of the most momentous changes in the UK since the turn of the millennium. In 2008, the city rose to prominence as it gained global status as the European Capital of Culture. Liverpool cemented its reputation as a cultural hub attracting visitors and residents to its impressive culture. Since the city celebrated its glorified status, masses of investment has been injected into the city, helping to fuel its economy through regeneration.
One of the main parts of the city that was transformed through its new elevated status was Liverpool One shopping centre, where a vast majority of the complex was opened in phases during Liverpool’s reigning year. The aim of the project was the regeneration of 42 acres of underutilised land in Liverpool city centre. A multitude of retail giants like John Lewis and Debenhams headed up the new scheme with over 170 stores following suit; Liverpool’s modern shopping vision began to take shape.
Judging by the positive effect Liverpool One had on the city’s economy, it opened the floodgates for further investment and forthcoming expansions. Due to regeneration schemes reshaping Liverpool’s cityscape, new businesses began to take over, giving smaller start-ups an equal chance against the more established companies. The injection of development has led to a spike in visitors since the turn of the millennium, not to mention the rise in people that now call Liverpool home.
Other areas of the city have been a part of incredible transformations too – the Baltic Triangle being one of the most ambitious. Once regarded as industrial wasteland over a decade ago, it has been given a new lease of life. Now, this pocket of Liverpool has emerged as one of the coolest places in the country as the streets are lined with quirky bars and restaurants, unique art spaces and digital enterprises. New developments like One Baltic Square have been brought to the city through property investment specialists RW Invest. This is the start of a new era for the Baltic Triangle as the district has come a long way from its trading and shipping history. New developments around the city have been built, completed and fully tenanted over recent years, helping the skyline to evolve, and attracting new visitors, residents and investors to the city.
Liverpool has not only changed in terms of adapting landscapes and innovative businesses, but the city’s economy has grown exponentially. Innovative businesses and premium properties have reshaped the city, leading to a double in the total population. The population of Liverpool city centre has risen to 29,060 last year compared to the reported statistics in 2006 of 15,271. The city’s universities are one of the biggest catalysts to the enormous spike in population. In 2016/17 the enrolment figures for universities across Liverpool were 54,755, compared to an estimated 893,009 in 2018.
From a city that evolved from a small fishing village on the tidal banks of the River Mersey, Liverpool has come a long way since the turn of the millennium. Liverpool has earned its title as one of the UK’s most prosperous cities, with an incessant stream of those wanting to explore its charm.
This post is a guest post.